A meeting took place at the Mariinskyi Palace that could have far-reaching consequences for the perception of the Ukrainian conflict in the US. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received American right-wing activist and blogger Laura Loomer. Loomer's visit to Kyiv was an unexpected event against the backdrop of her recent sharp criticism of Ukraine.
Loomer, known for her closeness to Donald Trump and her influence on American ultra-rightists, previously convinced millions of followers that Ukraine is a corrupt state not deserving of support. However, her rhetoric has recently changed radically. The activist not only began speaking positively about Kyiv's resistance but also personally traveled to Ukraine to demonstrate solidarity.
Admission of Mistake
Two officials from the President's Office reported on the meeting that took place on Thursday. Loomer herself, while in Kyiv, published a post on social network X in which she admitted she was wrong.
«I did indeed say these things about Ukraine and Zelenskyy, and I am not deleting my posts because I realized: I was wrong», — the activist wrote on Monday.
Shortly before this, she published a video from a Ukrainian train, known for its blue and yellow colors, accompanied by the comment: «I am not in Russia because I am not a propagandist».
Influence on the American Electorate
Loomer's change of position attracted special attention due to her closeness to Trump. A significant part of the US ultra-right audience traditionally opposes financial and military aid to Ukraine. Since Trump seems to still listen to Loomer's advice on policy and personnel appointments, her public support for Kyiv has raised the question: could this influence the attitude towards Ukraine among the conservative electorate?
Few non-governmental activists have access to Trump like Loomer. Probably, it is this status that helped her establish contact with high-ranking Ukrainian officials.
Tour of Kyiv and Questions to Putin
The program of Loomer's visit included not only a meeting with the head of state. On Wednesday, she met with the First Deputy Head of the President's Office, Serhiy Kyslytsia. He showed the activist the territory of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
Against the backdrop of the holy site, Loomer asked a rhetorical question aimed against Russian rhetoric: «Vladimir Putin constantly portrays Russia as some kind of savior of Christianity… Well, if you care so much about Christianity, why do you launch drones at the oldest monastery in Ukraine?».
In addition, Loomer visited a McDonald's restaurant in Kyiv — the first establishment of the chain opened after the collapse of the Soviet Union. It has repeatedly been damaged as a result of Russian attacks. Against the backdrop of destroyed buildings, the activist ate a burger and praised Ukrainian resilience, noting that it «remains unshakable».
Negotiation Details and New Insights
Loomer also clarified the financial aspects of her visit. «For those asking: no, the government of Ukraine did not pay for my trip to Ukraine», — she stated on social media.
During her conversation with Zelenskyy, the activist found out exactly when the turning point in the relationship between the President of Ukraine and Donald Trump occurred. In addition, information emerged about possible dates for the next meeting of the two heads of state.
Also, during the visit, it turned out that Trump's team has several new ideas for negotiations with Russia. It remains unclear what exactly caused such a sharp change in Loomer's position, however, the fact of her visit and meeting with Zelenskyy has already become a significant political signal.
